Discover the Best Dishes to Try in Sri Lanka: A Foodie's Guide

As a food lover and avid traveler, one of the best ways to immerse myself in the culture of a new destination is through its cuisine. And when it comes to Sri Lanka, the island nation known for its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, the local food scene is truly a feast for the senses. In this foodie's guide, I will take you on a culinary journey to discover the best dishes to try in Sri Lanka.

Popular Sri Lankan dishes

Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors influenced by the country's rich history and diverse cultural heritage. One of the most iconic dishes you must try is "rice and curry." This hearty and satisfying meal consists of fragrant rice served with an array of curries made with vegetables, meat, or seafood. The curries are often cooked with a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, which give them their distinct flavor.

Another must-try dish is "hoppers." These bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour are crispy on the edges and soft in the center. They can be enjoyed plain or filled with an egg for breakfast or with a spicy curry for lunch or dinner. Hoppers are a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine and are often accompanied by "sambols," which are spicy condiments made with coconut, chili, and lime.

Rice and curry - the staple of Sri Lankan cuisine

Rice and curry is the centerpiece of every Sri Lankan meal. It is a harmonious combination of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave you wanting more. The rice is usually cooked fluffy and fragrant, and the curries range from mild and creamy to fiery and spicy. Some popular curries include "dhal curry," made with lentils, "brinjal moju," a tangy eggplant pickle, and "ambul thiyal," a sour fish curry.

To enhance the flavors of the curries, Sri Lankans often serve them with an assortment of condiments known as "mallum." These are usually made with finely chopped vegetables or greens mixed with coconut, lime juice, and spices. The combination of the curries, rice, and condiments creates a balanced and satisfying meal that will tantalize your taste buds.

Spices and flavors in Sri Lankan dishes

Sri Lankan cuisine is famous for its bold and aromatic flavors, thanks to the use of an array of spices. From fiery chili peppers to fragrant cinnamon, these spices add depth and complexity to the dishes. The most commonly used spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, fenugreek, and mustard seeds.

One spice that is synonymous with Sri Lankan cuisine is "ceylon cinnamon." Known for its sweet and delicate flavor, it is used in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether it's a spicy curry or a rich dessert, the addition of cinnamon elevates the taste and gives it a unique Sri Lankan twist.

Street food in Sri Lanka

No foodie's guide to Sri Lanka would be complete without mentioning the vibrant street food scene. From bustling markets to roadside stalls, the streets of Sri Lanka are filled with an array of mouthwatering snacks and quick bites. One popular street food item is "kottu roti," a delicious combination of chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, all stir-fried on a hot griddle. The rhythmic sound of the metal spatulas chopping the ingredients is a common soundtrack in Sri Lankan towns and cities.

Another street food favorite is "issovade," which translates to "shrimp cake." These deep-fried fritters are made with a combination of ground lentils, spices, and succulent shrimp. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect snack to enjoy on the go.

Traditional Sri Lankan sweets and desserts

Sri Lanka is also known for its delectable sweets and desserts that are enjoyed on special occasions and festivals. One such dessert is "watalappan," a creamy and rich coconut custard made with jaggery, cardamom, and nutmeg. It is often steamed in banana leaves, which infuse it with a subtle aroma.

If you have a sweet tooth, you must try "kokis," a crispy and deep-fried cookie made with rice flour and coconut milk. These intricate flower-shaped cookies are a labor of love, as they are made using a special mold and fried until golden and crunchy.

Regional specialties in Sri Lankan cuisine

Sri Lanka is a country of diverse landscapes and cultures, and each region has its own unique culinary specialties. In the coastal areas, you will find an abundance of seafood dishes like "jaffna crab curry," made with fresh crab cooked in a fragrant blend of spices. In the hill country, you can savor the flavors of "kandyan cuisine," which includes dishes like "milk rice" and "kola kenda," a herbal porridge made with green leaves and coconut milk.

In the northern part of Sri Lanka, "puttu" is a popular dish made with steamed cylinders of ground rice and coconut. It is often served with a spicy curry or "sambol" for a hearty and satisfying breakfast.

Vegetarian and vegan options in Sri Lankan food

For vegetarian and vegan food lovers, Sri Lankan cuisine offers a wide range of delicious options. Many traditional Sri Lankan dishes are naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting dairy or using plant-based alternatives.

One popular vegetarian dish is "poloscurry," made with young jackfruit cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and coconut milk. The jackfruit has a meaty texture that makes it a great substitute for meat in curries. Another favorite is "gotu kola sambol," a refreshing salad made with fresh greens, coconut, and lime juice.

Where to find the best Sri Lankan food

To truly experience the authentic flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, you must venture beyond the tourist areas and explore the local eateries and markets. In the cities, look for small family-run restaurants known as "kadeys" or "boutiques." These humble establishments serve delicious home-cooked meals at affordable prices.

If you're in Colombo, don't miss the opportunity to visit the bustling "Pettah Market." Here, you will find a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture of Sri Lanka.

Explore the culinary delights of Sri Lanka

From the fragrant rice and curry to the mouthwatering street food, Sri Lanka offers a culinary experience like no other. The blend of flavors, spices, and textures will take you on a gastronomic journey that will leave you craving for more. So, pack your bags, embark on a foodie adventure, and discover the best dishes to try in Sri Lanka. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Sri Lanka? Start planning your foodie adventure today and explore the diverse flavors of this beautiful island nation! Before you travel to Sri Lanka, pick up an eSIM for Sri Lanka. These digital SIM Cards help you stay mobile and provide you the cheapest calling rates and roaming plans for Sri Lanka !